Portia Thomas
"The peer experience reminded me of my inner strength and leadership skills that are sometimes silenced by self-doubt. This program reminded me that I am capable of being a leader."
MSQM: Health Analytics
Industry:
Prior Education:
Kennesaw State University
Doctorate, Nursing Science
Reflections
I aimed to develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in data analytics to support health care programs and research initiatives. Fuqua’s MSQM: Health Analytics program provides a robust curriculum and a stellar alumni network, which will be beneficial as I transition from clinical research to data quality and analytics.
Before Fuqua
When I started the program, I was a research associate at Yale University, implementing NIH grant-funded clinical research studies. Now, as Coordinator of Regulatory & Quality Analytics, I am charged with identifying quality measures, conducting analysis, and presenting and submitting those results to organizational leaders, providers, and regulatory bodies.
After Fuqua
I want to leverage the skills and knowledge from this program to streamline the data quality process, improving what data is captured and how it is presented to convey what actionable steps to take.
Advice for Prospective Students
Set a schedule for balancing all of your commitments, including family, employment, and school. I’d recommend having conversations with your support systems on this next chapter and giving yourself grace as you navigate the semester. Keep your commitment, and you will gain knowledge and understanding.
MSQM:HA students "meet" in Durham without leaving home
Global Executive MBA
Top Areas of Career Focus
Financial Services (20%)
Consulting (5%)
Sales/Business Development (5%)
Energy/Chemical/Gas (9%)
Marketing/PR/Advertising (6%)
Consumer Goods (3%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Non-US Citizenship
Women
Master of Management Studies: Duke Kunshan University
Undergraduate Majors
Business/Accounting (51%)
Economics (22%)
Liberal Arts (14%)
Engineering/Natural Sciences (10%)
Other (4%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Non-US Citizenship
Women
Master of Management Studies: Foundations of Business
Undergraduate Majors
Liberal Arts (33%)
Business/Accounting (24%)
Engineering/Natural Sciences (18%)
Economics (17%)
Other (8%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Non-US Citizenship
Women
Weekend Executive MBA
Top Areas of Career Focus
IT (16%)
Financial Services (14%)
Health Care/Health Services (10%)
Manufacturing/Operations (9%)
Sales/Business Development (8%)
Consulting (8%)